About 100 undergraduate students from 15 colleges and universities around the state showcased their research in the Capitol Rotunda and hallways. They exhibited posters on research in areas ranging from studies of keystroke biometrics for enhanced computer security to microgravity research, and many topics in between.

An awards ceremony at the Culture Center held in conjunction with Undergraduate Research Day, recognized more than $6.4 million in recent, competitively-funded state grants to colleges and universities to advance scientific research across West Virginia. Among the awards presented will be new studies funded by the Research Challenge Fund and two $100,000 awards supported by interest earned on the Research Trust Fund - or “Bucks for Brains” program.

More information about the Research Challenge Fund and Research Trust Fund, and the education and economic benefits these programs bring to the state, can be found at www.wvresearch.org.